One way to know if your taxes in Texas are actually working as the government says they are is to look at the efficiency of services that are providing basic necessities to the general public. One good indicator is security. Here’s what a recent FBI report found.
Violent crimes
The FBI reported that violent crimes collectively dropped by 1.7% from 2021 to 2022. Upon closer examination, there was a decline of 1.1% in aggravated assault cases, a reduction of 5.4% in rape incidents and a decrease of 6.1% in murder and non-negligent manslaughter. However, there was a slight increase of 1.3% in robbery incidents.
Property crimes
On the other hand, property crimes rose by 7.1%. Motor vehicle theft showed the most significant increase at 10.9%. The report found that a person got hurt out of every three carjackings.
What this mean to you
With violent crimes decreasing to pre-pandemic levels, it may be an indicator that government services, such as law enforcement and community programs, are effective in keeping the public safe. However, this doesn’t mean that you can let your guard down. A vast majority of crimes go unreported. And the ones that reach the FBI desk and turn into statistics must be accurately recorded in the federal database and shared on time.
Reporting a crime in Texas
In Texas, there are different pathways for reporting a crime, each designed to cater to the specific requirements and circumstances of diverse individuals. If it’s an emergency, you should dial 911 immediately. Law enforcement officers will ask you to provide your name, location and details of the incident and to stay on the line until help arrives.
For non-emergency situations, you can call or visit your local police or sheriff’s department. Each city in Texas has its own non-emergency number, often found on the official city or county website.
A keen understanding and interaction with your local law enforcement does more than just keep you safe; it forges a sense of community, breeds mutual respect and establishes a stronger, more resilient society. While the government is making strides in reducing crimes, it helps to stay vigilant and informed to adequately handle any emergency that may arise.